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As we get older, our bodies hurt more, and we have to face new challenges, which might make it hard for older adults to get out of bed. However, inactivity isn’t good for anyone. So, if you want to help your loved one get back up and start moving again, you’ll have to support them and help ensure that there’s not a more serious underlying issue.
When an elderly person won’t get out of bed, they will likely suffer from weakening muscles and physical problems later. Elderly people may avoid getting out of bed if they are experiencing fatigue, exhaustion, or a psychological disorder such as dementia or depression.
An older parent or loved one needs your support and care at their most vulnerable moments, but you’ll need to understand the cause of the problem if you want to treat it. So, let’s discuss why older people may refuse to get out of bed and the proper ways to respond.
Reasons Why an Elderly Won’t Get Up
When you understand the reasons behind your loved one’s hesitance to get up, you can begin to find ways to support them. The most common reasons for elders not wanting to get out of bed include the following:
Dementia
Dementia causes confusion and exhaustion. According to reports, dementia can seriously impair a person’s mobility. As a result, they may have difficulty balancing and coordinating themselves, which makes it challenging to get up in the morning.
Additionally, dementia contributes to elders’ inability to sleep, which leaves them feeling exhausted and desperate for some rest. These factors can make them unwilling to get up and do things they used to enjoy.
Medication-Induced Fatigue
People suffering from fatigue caused by medications may also refuse to leave their beds.
Some medications have side effects that can make people drowsy or unsteady. Sometimes, your loved one may also be experiencing muscle pain due to their medications.
If you suspect a prescription is limiting your loved ones’ motivation, talk to their doctor about possible changes to their treatment.
Depression
Depression is common among elderly adults. According to the CDC, older adults are more likely to experience depression.
Depression in older adults causes trouble sleeping, eating, and concentrating. They may withdraw from social activities and lose interest in hobbies or activities they used to enjoy. It’s common for people who are depressed to feel unmotivated to get up in the morning.
How To Support and Care for an Elderly Person?
Often, it is not easy to care for an older person, especially if they refuse to do things in their best interest. The process requires patience and a lot of effort.
Here are some tips to make the job easier:
Seek a Doctor’s Advice
First, ensure the changes you see in your aging loved one are not symptoms of an underlying medical condition.
Check with the elderly person’s primary healthcare provider and talk about possible reasons why the person won’t get out of bed. Sometimes, a doctor may change medications, prescribe new ones, or find a new health issue that needs treatment.
The next step is knowing how to support and care for them. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Go for a Walk Together
A walk outdoors to catch some fresh air is good for both of you. It’s also a great way to catch up and spend time together.
Make sure you plan before going out to ensure the outing is enjoyable for both of you. Bring a comfortable outdoor chair if your loved one has trouble walking or gets tired quickly. This way, they can sit and take some rest when needed.
If you need a comfortable outdoor chair, I recommend getting the AmazonBasics Portable Folding Camping Chair with Carrying Bag from Amazon.com to make your experience more enjoyable.
If your elderly parents refuse to walk, you should understand their situation and listen to them carefully to find their reasons. I’ve discussed the reasons why an elderly may avoid walking and listed some tips to help you treat your loved one well. What to Do When Elderly Parents Refuse to Walk
Be a Good Listener
Listening to your elderly loved one talk about their life can be meaningful.
Ask questions about their past and listen to their stories. Doing so will significantly improve their enthusiasm and outlook on life. Your presence can make a huge difference in their mood, helping them feel more content and comfortable.
How Do You Take Care of Elderly Parents at Home?
To take care of elderly parents at home, you may need help from others. A caregiver can help you ensure that your parent gets the attention they need. In addition, making your house more accessible for your older parent can help keep them safe and give them more opportunities to get out of bed.
Ask Trusted Friends and Family for Caregiver References
In some cases, hiring a caregiver to be with your parent while you are busy or away from home is the best idea. That way, you can be sure that your older parent stays safe and doesn’t get lonely.
If you plan to hire a caregiver, get references from other families who have used their services before making your final decision. Information from people with first-hand experience with the caregiver will be invaluable in making your decision.
Decide on a schedule to follow and talk about your expectations. It is essential to be clear about the caregiver’s tasks. Maintain open communication with your caregiver.
Developing a good relationship with them will help to avoid misunderstandings and give you peace of mind that your loved one is in good hands.
Take Safety Precautions
When caring for the elderly at home, there are many things to consider to keep them safe. Check your home and ensure that it is free from trip hazards.
Also, you might have to install handrails in the bathroom and grab bars near the toilet to help prevent falls. Keep the path from the bedroom to the bathroom clear and free from clutter. How to Install a Grab Bar in a Marble Shower
If they use a wheelchair, make sure there are no obstacles in their way.
Check out Vive Grab Bar for Bathtubs and Showers and Vive Toilet Safety Rail – Adjustable Grab Bar, both available on Amazon.com for bathtub and toilet safety. Having these in your home can ensure that your elderly parent can move around without fearing that they will fall.
You might also find these tips from Amy Grant helpful when caring for an aging parent.
Conclusion
When an elderly loved one refuses to get up from bed, it is a cause for concern. Long-term bed rest results in weak and atrophied muscles. Being confined to bed can also cause feelings of isolation and loneliness.
If you know someone who refuses to move, find out why your loved one is reluctant to get out of bed. They could be in pain or suffering from depression. Consult a physician to determine whether there are any underlying health conditions.
Most importantly, show love and support to your loved one during this difficult time.
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